Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children: Results of a Pilot Study
Jennifer Lee, Randye J Semple, Dinelia Rosa, Lisa Miller
Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy March 1, 2008 DOI: 10.1891/0889.8391.22.1.15 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Open trial Pilot study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 25 |
| Population | Nonreferred children aged 9 to 12 |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children (MBCT-C) |
| Duration | 12-week intervention |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | MBCT-C was associated with reductions in internalizing and externalizing symptoms per parent reports, with high attendance and retention supporting feasibility and acceptability. |
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and helpfulness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children (MBCT-C) for the treatment of internalizing and externalizing symptoms in a sample of nonreferred children. Twenty-five children, ages 9 to 12, participated in the 12-week intervention. Assessments were conducted at baseline and posttreatment. Open trial analyses found preliminary support for MBCT-C as helpful in reducing internalizing and externalizing symptoms within subjects on the parent report measure. The high attendance rate (Intent-to-Treat sample, 78%; Completer sample, 94%), high retention rate (68%), and positive ratings on program evaluations supported treatment feasibility and acceptability. Overall, this pilot study offers feasibility and acceptability data for MBCT-C as a potential treatment for internalizing and externalizing symptoms in children. Further research is needed to test the efficacy of the intervention with a larger sample of children who meet diagnostic criteria for clinical disorders.